Dentures 101: Types, Care, Common Issues & Why Nursing Homes May Avoid Them

Dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth and restore function and appearance. They are commonly used for patients who have lost teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury. We will explore the main types of dentures, how they work, their pros and cons, and specific considerations such as sore spots and denture use in long-term care settings.

1. What Are Dentures?

Dentures are artificial replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They help with chewing, speaking, and maintaining facial structure. Dentures can be complete (full) or partial, depending on how many teeth are being replaced. Another option to replace a missing tooth or teeth would be a dental implant, or bridge.

2. Types of Dentures

Complete Dentures

• Used when all teeth are missing in the upper or lower arch.

• Made after gums have healed following extractions.

• Rely on suction or adhesive for retention.

• Typically made of acrylic.

Partial Dentures

• Used when some natural teeth remain.

• Often made of metal and acrylic.

• Attach to existing teeth with clasps.

• Help maintain alignment of remaining teeth.

Immediate Dentures

• Placed right after tooth extractions.

• Allow patients to have teeth during healing.

• May need relining after gums shrink.

Overdentures (Implant-Supported Dentures)

• Fit over remaining roots or implants.

• Provide better stability and comfort.

• More costly but beneficial long-term.

3. How Dentures Work

Dentures are molded to fit the patient’s mouth precisely. Complete dentures rest on the gums, while partials anchor to nearby teeth. Over time, the fit may change due to bone resorption, requiring adjustments or relining.

4. Common Problems: Sore Spots & Adjustments

Sore spots are a common issue, especially with new dentures. They can occur due to:

• Poor fit or pressure points

• Improper chewing technique

• Gums changing shape during healing

Solutions include:

• Follow-up visits for adjustments

• Use of denture adhesive (when recommended)

• Gentle cleaning to prevent irritation

5. Dentures in Nursing Homes: Why They're Often Discouraged

While dentures can greatly improve quality of life, they may not be ideal in nursing home or long-term care settings due to:

• Increased risk of dentures being lost or broken

• Difficulty maintaining hygiene

• Cognitive challenges or physical limitations affecting fit and use

• Potential for choking if ill-fitting or misused

Often, our goal is to maintain the teeth they have by keeping them as clean as possible. Regular dental and dental hygiene check ups are so important. Even finding a mobile dental professional to go right to their nursing home is even better!

6. Final Tips for Patients and Caregivers

• Keep dentures clean daily using a denture brush and cleaner.

• Remove dentures every night to allow the mouth to 'breathe' without them

• Never use hot water, which can warp the material.

• Encourage regular dental checkups to monitor fit and oral health.

Watch the video below for even more information with videos and explanations :) or click here to watch on Youtube.